Washington Nursing Colleges & Licenses
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“Nursing in Washington is dynamic, challenging, and deeply impactful, with areas of practice spanning rural, urban, and medically underserved communities.”
Jennifer Sonney, PhD, Associate Dean for Student & Academic Affairs and Joanne Montgomery Endowed Professor, University of Washington School of Nursing
Washington State, famous for its lush green landscapes and vibrant cities, is also known for its progressive policies for public healthcare. The state offers nursing opportunities across various healthcare settings, from bustling city hospitals to serene rural clinics.
Nursing in Washington State offers a unique blend of opportunities and challenges, making it an exciting place for healthcare professionals. The state boasts a robust healthcare system with a diverse demographic of licensed practical nurses (LPNs), registered nurses (RNs), and nurse practitioners (NPs) contributing to high-quality patient care across various settings.
However, like many other states, it faces its own unique set of challenges. One of the significant challenges facing the nursing profession in Washington is the need for more nurses, particularly in rural areas. This has led to a higher nurse-patient ratio in some regions. Several initiatives are underway to improve nurse recruitment and retention strategies to address this.
The future looks bright for registered nurses in Washington and the United States. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2025) projects a 6 percent job growth rate for registered nurses between 2023 and 2033, slightly faster than the national average of 4 percent for all occupations. However, the BLS’s combined grouping of advanced practice registered nurses—nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners—is in even higher demand, with a staggering 40 percent projected growth rate in the coming decade.
In terms of salary, registered nurses in Washington are doing exceptionally well. As of May 2024, they earn an annual median wage of $112,180, more than 16 percent higher than the national average of $93,600 (BLS May 2024). These statistics highlight the promising career prospects for nurses in Washington and underscore the importance of quality nursing education.
In summary, nursing in Washington State offers a dynamic and rewarding career path. Its diverse opportunities, rigorous educational programs, and progressive healthcare policies make it a compelling choice for those seeking to make a difference in nursing.
This guide provides an overview of the top nursing colleges in Washington and the licensing processes required to work in the state.
Featured Online Nursing Programs
Meet the Expert: Jennifer Sonney, PhD, ARNP, PPCNP-BC, FAANP, FAAN
Dr. Jennifer Sonney is the associate dean for student & academic affairs and Joanne Montgomery Endowed Professor at the University of Washington School of Nursing. A nationally recognized pediatric nurse practitioner, scientist, and educator, she focuses on improving outcomes for children with chronic conditions, particularly asthma, through technology-enabled, family-centered interventions.
Dr. Sonney has led UW’s PNP program and served as president of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. Her research combines behavior change theory, symptom science, and digital health innovations to promote equitable self‑management practices. She is a Fellow of both the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Academy of Nursing and has received national honors for her contributions to pediatric nursing and scholarly publishing.
She earned her PhD in nursing science from the University of Arizona and holds BSN and MN degrees from the University of Washington, where she has been licensed as an APRN and PNP since 2006.
NursingColleges.com: What do you wish people knew about nursing in Washington?
Dr. Sonney: Nursing in Washington is dynamic, challenging, and deeply impactful, with areas of practice spanning rural, urban, and medically underserved communities. Nurses in Washington are not only delivering excellent direct care at the bedside, but also leading within public health, policy, and educational arenas.
I wish more people recognized the full scope of nurses’ contributions across settings. This broad ecosystem of nursing is essential to promoting the health of Washington communities, ensuring access to critical health services, and preparing the next generation of nurses to meet the evolving needs of Washington citizens.
NursingColleges.com: Do you have any advice for aspiring nurses?
Dr. Sonney: Absolutely! Nursing is a challenging yet deeply rewarding career with countless avenues to pursue.
First, embrace your curiosity. Nurses are lifelong learners who continually seek new evidence and innovations to advance our practice. Second, find your community. Nursing is a challenging field and a strong support system of mentors, loved ones, and peers is essential to navigating nursing school and early practice experiences. And finally, use your voice. Nursing is the most trusted profession and we are powerful advocates. We must use our collective voices to advocate for patients, families, communities, and our profession itself.
NursingColleges.com: What does the future of nursing look like to you?
Dr. Sonney: The future of nursing is both challenging and exciting. We are living in a transformative era that touches every facet of health and healthcare. I envision a future where nurses are leveraging technology innovations to expand access and promote health equity, leading patient-centered research to address urgent health challenges, and driving system-level change to improve health care delivery.
Nurses can and should be in every health and healthcare arena, from bedside to boardrooms, from clinics to state capitals, and from research labs to rural communities. Our patients and communities are relying on us to do this work, and I am proud to be a part of that movement.
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Washington
University of Washington (On-Campus)
The University of Washington’s traditional on-campus pre-licensure BSN program is a demanding full-time curriculum delivered over six academic quarters. Designed for college juniors who have completed prerequisite coursework in science and humanities (or those holding a prior bachelor’s degree), the program immerses students in rigorous academic and clinical training, preparing graduates for careers across the full spectrum of nursing practice: from bedside care to community health.
Students engage in coursework centered on critical thinking, nursing therapeutics, health care resources, and evidence-based decision-making, delivered in person by UW’s leading nurse educators and researchers.
With an application deadline for autumn that typically starts on January 15, the BSN program enrolls a cohort annually and is highly selective due to limited space. Students often pursue leadership and specialization opportunities by continuing on to graduate study, such as UW’s DNP or MSN programs, which the School of Nursing is nationally ranked for.
- Location: Seattle, WA
- Duration: 18 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Bellingham Technical College (On-campus)
The Nursing DTA/MRP (direct-transfer agreement/major ready pathway) associate degree program offered by Bellingham Technical College is a comprehensive and rigorous course designed for individuals looking to enter the nursing profession. This program offers full-time and part-time options, catering to students with different needs and schedules. The curriculum is structured to provide students with diverse, complex, and specific experiences essential to acquiring and practicing critical nursing skills. It’s a vigorous program requiring sufficient intellectual and emotional functions to plan and implement patient care.
Upon completion, students earn an associate in nursing degree, preparing them for an entry-level career as an RN or transfer to a baccalaureate program in nursing (BSN). One of the standout features of this program is its emphasis on preparing students for real-world challenges they may face in their nursing careers, making it an excellent choice for those serious about a healthcare career.
- Location: Bellingham, WA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Bellevue College (On-campus)
Bellevue College’s nursing program is a comprehensive and dynamic educational pathway that prepares students for fulfilling careers in healthcare. The program offers an associate degree in nursing (ADN), accredited by the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education, ensuring a high standard of education. Bellevue College also provides an RN to BSN program designed to build upon the academic foundations and experiences of the Associate Degree prepared nurse.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, further enhancing its credibility. The curriculum emphasizes practical knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for beginning-level clinical practice as registered nurses. This robust nursing program aligns with Bellevue College’s mission of preparing students for life-long learning by offering high-quality, flexible education.
- Location: Bellevue, WA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Big Bend Community College (On-campus)
The associate degree in nursing at Big Bend Community College is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a career in the healthcare industry. The program aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality nursing care in various healthcare settings. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with practical laboratory experiences, offering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and patient care courses.
Throughout the program, students acquire various skills, including critical thinking, effective communication, clinical decision-making, and patient advocacy. The program emphasizes developing these skills through hands-on clinical experiences in various healthcare facilities. The program provides internships, career fairs, and community service projects, further enhancing students’ practical experience and networking opportunities. Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
- Location: Moses Lake, WA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Eastern Washington University (On-campus)
The bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program at Eastern Washington University (EWU) is an exciting and comprehensive program that prepares students for a rewarding career in nursing. It accepts a 40-seat cohort in the fall and spring semesters.
This is a rigorous program that requires four years of full-time study, with courses covering a wide array of topics such as professional role development, nursing foundations, and more. It also includes practical experiences to help students apply their knowledge in real-world healthcare settings.
- Location: Cheney, WA
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU); Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission
Walla Walla University (On-campus)
Walla Walla University’s bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program stands out for its commitment to preparing students for a dynamic, challenging, and rewarding career in nursing. The program follows a four-year curriculum leading to a baccalaureate degree with a major in nursing. Its primary purpose is to prepare students to deliver high-quality care in diverse healthcare settings. The program focuses on real-world application and integrates rigorous academic study with hands-on clinical experience.
Graduates of this program are well-equipped to meet the profession’s demands and take on leadership roles in the field. The program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), ensuring that students receive an education that meets the highest standards in the field.
- Location: College Place, WA
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Washington
University of Washington (On-Campus)
The University of Washington School of Nursing offers both a DNP (doctorate of nursing practice) and PhD (doctor of philosophy in nursing science) program. The DNP program is a practice-focused doctorate designed to prepare experts in specialized advanced nursing practice. It emphasizes applying research to clinical practice, leadership, and policy-making.
The PhD program, however, is more research-intensive and aims to cultivate premier leaders in nursing research. It is ideal for students with diverse backgrounds who maintain a holistic view of nursing. This program equips students with advanced research skills and prepares them to contribute to developing nursing science and improving healthcare delivery.
Both programs offer engaging research opportunities and practical experiences that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. These graduate programs stand out for their exceptional faculty expertise, comprehensive resources, and strong reputation in the nursing field.
- Location: Seattle, WA
- Duration: 27 to 36 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Gonzaga University (On-campus)
The doctor of nurse anesthesia practice (DNAP) program at Gonzaga University is a highly regarded, rigorous program designed for nurses aspiring to pursue a career as a nurse anesthetist. This 36-month (nine semester) full-time program, which starts in May each year, is structured to provide an evidence-based experience that seamlessly blends clinical anesthesia practice with leadership strategies. The curriculum encompasses many courses, ensuring students are prepared for the field’s challenges.
The program aims to produce anesthesia providers that set the benchmark for safe, competent, and evidence-based anesthesia care. Graduates from this program are well-equipped to take on leadership roles in the field, contributing positively to patient care and the nursing profession.
- Location: Spokane, WA
- Duration: 4.5 years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE); Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs
Pacific Lutheran University (On-campus)
Pacific Lutheran University offers robust and comprehensive nursing programs that are designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. The School of Nursing provides multiple paths to a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), including a traditional BSN for first-time college students, an accelerated BSN for students with non-nursing college credits, and both an MSN and a DNP for those looking to further their education.
The curriculum is carefully crafted to balance theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring students can handle real-world scenarios. Courses include foundations of care delivery and health promotion, patho/pharmacology, and more. The university also offers a doctor of nursing practice and post-graduate APRN certificate programs, both accredited and recognized for their quality of education.
The nursing program’s focus on scientific knowledge, humanistic theory, and advanced healthcare technology makes it a top choice for aspiring nurses. Additionally, the program’s strong ties with local healthcare facilities provide students with valuable hands-on experience, preparing them for a seamless transition into their professional careers.
- Location: Tacoma, WA
- Duration: One to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Seattle University (On-campus)
The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program at Seattle University is a robust and comprehensive offering designed to prepare nurses for the highest level of practice. The curriculum caters to nurses with bachelor’s and master’s degrees and college graduates with no healthcare background and integrates advanced nursing theory with high-level clinical practice. The program offers several focus areas, such as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse-adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner.
Unique features of the program include an intense, practice-based curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and hands-on training in various healthcare settings. In addition to this, students have the opportunity to attend online information sessions to learn more about the program. The DNP program at Seattle University equips students with a sophisticated understanding of their practice and its larger context, preparing them for leadership roles in the ever-evolving healthcare field.
- Location: Seattle, WA
- Duration: Three to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Washington State University (On-campus)
The Washington State University College of Nursing offers a dynamic range of graduate programs designed to advance students’ nursing careers. From the master of science in nursing (MSN) program that prepares graduates for advanced practice roles in acute, outpatient, and community settings to the doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) and PhD programs that equip students with the skills to transform healthcare systems and influence policy, each program is tailored to meet the demands of today’s complex healthcare landscape.
The college also participates in the Western Regional Graduate Program, providing residents of 16 western states with increased access to high-quality, affordable education. With state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a commitment to excellence, WSU College of Nursing is ideal for those seeking to elevate their nursing expertise and impact.
- Location: Spokane, WA
- Duration: One to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Nursing School Accreditation
Nursing school accreditation is a vital process that guarantees nurses have the most current knowledge, skills, and competence aligned with industry standards. It brings security and peace of mind to all stakeholders, including future nurses, training institutions, employers, support staff, and patients.
Students must complete a nursing program accredited by institutional or programmatic accrediting bodies to practice nursing legally. When it comes to nursing school accreditation, there are two categories: institutional and programmatic.
The leading organizations for programmatic accreditation in nursing schools are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Other nursing accreditation organizations focus on specialized curriculums, such as the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs.
Institutional accreditation is an evaluative mark of a college or university’s quality. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), recognized by the US Department of Education, identifies seven regional organizations that review and grant institutional accreditation status. These independent bodies evaluate academic integrity, financial stability, faculty expertise, and degrees awarded to determine a university’s standards.
Lastly, it is crucial to consider the state authorization status when researching online and hybrid nursing programs, especially for degrees that require state licensing. The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) regulates this to help prospective students ensure their educational institution is compatible with state boards of nursing requirements for online or hybrid nursing programs. Confirming state authorization status is essential to avoid expensive challenges during state licensing tests or even the inability to receive credentials.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Washington?
These numbers represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2024—the latest data available as of August 2025.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 632,430 | 6,450 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $64,150 | $79,970 |
| 10th percentile | $47,960 | $62,400 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $62,340 | $79,700 |
| 90th percentile | $80,510 | $96,680 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,282,010 | 64,690 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $98,430 | $115,740 |
| 10th percentile | $66,030 | $86,490 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $93,600 | $112,180 |
| 90th percentile | $135,320 | $149,370 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 50,350 | 730 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $231,700 | $276,110 |
| 10th percentile | $137,230 | $211,170 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $223,210 | >$239,200 per year |
| 90th percentile | >$239,200 per year | >$239,200 per year |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 8,280 | 150 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $128,110 | $149,980 |
| 10th percentile | $74,670 | $105,990 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $120,790 | $145,000 |
| 90th percentile | $177,040 | $205,640 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 307,390 | 4,790 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $132,000 | $143,620 |
| 10th percentile | $97,960 | $107,700 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $129,210 | $140,220 |
| 90th percentile | $169,950 | $177,770 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licensure in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Washington State Board of Nursing | Washington applicants for an LPN license must meet the following requirements:
| Every three years, Washington LPNs are required to renew their licenses. They must complete an application and pay the fee. They must also obtain eight hours of continuing education and proof of 96 active hours of practice per year. |
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Washington State Board of Nursing |
Washington applicants for an RN license must meet the following requirements:
|
Every three years RNs in Washington must complete a license renewal application and pay the fee. They must also obtain eight hours of continuing education and proof of 96 active hours of practice per year. Two hours of continuing education must be in health equity. |
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licensure in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
In Washington, a CNS is licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) and require the following to be eligible for licensure:
| All ARNPs in Washington state must renew their license every other year, by their birthday, to remain in active status. ARNPs must provide proof of an active registered nurse license (which can be renewed at the same time), active certification in the area of practice and submit a copy of recertification, and sign the renewal notice attestation stating completion of 30 contact hours of continuing education credit during the renewal period. If there is prescriptive authority, an additional 15 hours in pharmacology is required. Pay the renewal fee. |
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) Licensure in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Washington State Board of Nursing | In Washington, a CNM is licensed as an ARNP. To be eligible for licensure, candidates must:
| All ARNPs in Washington state must renew their license every other year by their birthday to remain in active status. ARNPs must provide proof of an active registered nurse license (which can be renewed at the same time), active certification in the area of practice and submit a copy of recertification, and sign the renewal notice attestation stating completion of 30 contact hours of continuing education credit during the renewal period. If there is prescriptive authority, an additional 15 hours in pharmacology is required. Submit the renewal fee. |
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licensure in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
In Washington, an NP is licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) and require the following to be eligible for licensure:
|
|
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CNRA) Licensure in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
In Washington, a CRNA is licensed as an advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP) and require the following to be eligible for licensure:
| All ARNPs in Washington state must renew their license every other year, by their birthday, to remain in active status. ARNPs must provide proof of an active registered nurse license (which can be renewed at the same time), active certification in the area of practice and submit a copy of recertification, and sign the renewal notice attestation stating completion of 30 contact hours of continuing education credit during the renewal period. If there is prescriptive authority, an additional 15 hours in pharmacology is required. Pay the necessary renewal fee. |
Matt Zbrog
WriterMatt Zbrog is a writer and researcher from Southern California. Since 2018, he’s written extensively about the modern nursing workforce, conducting hundreds of interviews with nurse leaders, nurse educators, and nurse advocates to explore the issues that matter to them most. His Advocates to Know series focuses on nurse practitioners (NPs) who go above and beyond in changing policy and practice in important areas like veteran’s care, human trafficking prevention, and telehealth access. He regularly collaborates with subject matter experts from the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP) to elevate issues that empower nurses everywhere.
Rachel Drummond, MEd
WriterAt NursingColleges.com, Rachel Drummond has applied her extensive experience in education and mindfulness to elucidate the importance of self-care for nursing students since 2022. Through her writings, she underscores the role of mental and physical well-being in fostering resilient and compassionate healthcare professionals.
Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.